Governor Greg Abbott received the John T. Walton Champion for Choice Award from the American Federation for Children, recognizing his role in enacting what he described as “the largest day-one school choice program in America.” The award ceremony took place last night.
“This May, I signed into law the largest day-one school choice program in America, empowering parents, not bureaucrats, to decide what is best for their children,” said Governor Abbott. “This historic legislation levels the playing field and expands educational opportunities for students across our great state. With this in full effect, Texas will become No. 1 in education and prove to the world the critical value of school choice.”
Governor Abbott credited Texas families as a driving force behind the push for expanded educational options. He referenced several examples:
– The Aly family, whose daughter struggled academically during COVID-19 and sought better alternatives.
– Eric Richerson, a parent dissatisfied with his child’s teacher’s unwillingness to address his son’s needs.
– Hillary Hickland, who was concerned about her daughter’s classroom environment and subsequently won a seat in the Texas Legislature.
– The family of Jeremiah Kimmel from Bell County, who felt their autistic child did not receive adequate support in public school.
According to Abbott, these stories illustrate why many families have advocated for greater educational freedom. He stated that thousands of families will now be able to select schools that better suit their children.
The Governor concluded by expressing gratitude: “I want to thank the American Federation for Children, parents, and educators for their vision, hard work, and dedication to ensuring the next generation has the education and skills needed to succeed.”
